It’s time: knitwear season is upon us. After months of relying on T-shirts and tanks, I’m relishing the opportunity to rediscover one of my favourite parts of my wardrobe. But after such a long stretch without having to think about knitwear pairings, I’ll admit I’m a little out of practice when it comes to deciding what to wear on the bottom half. That is, until I spotted Gwyneth Paltrow elevating her grey knit with a chic pair of white tailored trousers—which got the inspiration flowing.

Rather than defaulting to basic blue jeans, Gwyneth’s white trousers brought a welcome brightness to her otherwise neutral outfit, creating a combination that felt fresh. The lightness of the trousers lifted the soft grey knit without introducing any bold colour, resulting in a polished yet pairing that felt particularly apt for late-summer days and the first few weeks of autumn.

(Image credit: @gwynethpaltrow)

Whilst white trousers make an especially elegant partner for grey knitwear, they work just as well with the rest of your neutral wardrobe—navy and black are obvious pairings, but they also provide an understated base for those days when you do fancy introducing a pop of colour.

More polished than jeans but by no means overly formal, white tailored trousers feel like one of the chicest ways to refresh your autumn wardrobe right now. Inspired? Read on to shop the white trousers I’m recommending now below.

Shop White Trousers:

H&M Wide Trousers

These also come in black and pale beige.

COS Cotton Straight-Leg Drawstring Trousers

The cotton composition ensures a light, breezy fit.

Doen Lisa Pleated Cotton-Twill Wide-Leg Pants

Style these with a grey knit to get Gwyneth's look.

Marks & Spencer Single Pleat Wide Leg Trousers

These come in three different leg lengths, so you can find your perfect fit.

TOTEME Garderob Pleated Woven Tapered Pants

Toteme's elevated basics are a fashion person's favourites.

Mango High-Waisted Balloon Trousers

The balloon trouser trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.

Reformation Aven Pant

Whilst I love these in the white, they also come in four other shades.